RISE OF THE GUARDIANS

S

Reviewed by Paul Gibbs

GRADE: A

Rise of the Guardians is a simple idea, adapted from a series of books (with the much better title Guardians of Childhood): take Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, and other such characters, and turn them into The Avengers. How you react to this premise may determine how you react to the movie. In my case, I had the same idea when I was a kid, and have always wanted to either see it or make it.. Fortunately, I’m very satisfied with this version.

            The Guardians are a group of legendary figures who watch over and protect the children of the world. They are lead by North (Santa Claus, played by Alec Baldwin, sporting an Eastern European accent), The Easter Bunny (Hugh Jackman, sporting his own Australian accent, Isla Fisher (American accent) and The Sandman (no voice). The Man In The Moon, their own personal Nick Fury, decides they need another Guardian, and the mischievous Jack Frost (Chris Pine) is chosen to join them in their fight against the Bogeyman (Jude Law).

            While the early section feels a bit rushed, perhaps from trying to cram too many books into one short movie, when the movie kicks into gear it’s as funny and thrilling as most of the better superhero blockbusters, with dazzling action and animation, and a supremely clever story. All of the voice actors distinguish themselves especially Pine, in arguably his most charming turn yet. The movie is also extremely touching, and I freely admit I’ve been reduced to tears on both viewings. Director Peter Ramsey has fashioned a terrific holiday fantasy (with the help of visual consultants Guillermo Del Toro and Roger Deakins), and DreamWorks Animation follows its new How To Train Your Dragon model to create one of their best movies. It’s a fun, warm-heartedly, action-packed and funny fantasy that may give Disney’s excellent Wreck-It-Ralph some serious competition, and bodes very well for DreamWorks future. The days of smirky pop culture references and pop music have given way to  imaginative and somewhat dark fantasy, and it’s a refreshing change.

            Parents be warned, however: The Bogeyman (or “Pitch” as he is called) is played as the embodiment of childhood fear and nightmares, and he may be too scary for some young children. Use discretion. For everyone else, it’s a great time, and is worth including as part of your holiday season.